Baguio city: The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and the Baguio City government are advancing plans to convert a 3.36-hectare government property near Burnham Park into a tree park. This initiative aims to preserve the existing pine trees while facilitating recreation and sustainable economic activities.
According to Philippines News Agency, GSIS president and general manager Wick Veloso emphasized that the proposed Baguio Tree Park demonstrates a balance between environmental protection and the responsible management of public assets. Veloso stated that the project underscores GSIS' dedication to sustainable development and effective collaboration with local government units.
The designated area, located along Government Center-Military Cut-Off Road near Upper Session Road and North Drive, was previously reclassified from Government-Institutional to Park and Gardens by the city government, which led GSIS to seek legal intervention. However, discussions with Baguio City under Mayor Benjamin Magalong resulted in the property's reclassification as Government-Recreational-Commercial 2A. In return, GSIS agreed to preserve the pine trees and prohibit any tree cutting within the site.
This agreement also facilitated the dismissal of the legal case previously filed by GSIS regarding the property's classification. Mayor Magalong proposed transforming approximately 16,000 square meters of the area into a tree park, which would include elevated walkways, landscaped open spaces, and an amphitheater for community, wellness, and recreational activities.
The city government has already provided GSIS with conceptual plans and technical designs for the project. GSIS indicated that carefully planned micro-retail spaces might be developed to generate ongoing income without affecting the ecological nature of the property.
The initiative aims to prevent illegal occupancy and encroachment, provide additional recreational spaces, enhance the property's long-term value, and support Baguio's climate-resilient development goals. GSIS committed to ongoing collaboration with the city government and other stakeholders to ensure the project protects Baguio's natural heritage while delivering social, environmental, and economic benefits.
